Kitchenaid is a popular American home appliance brand that manufactures a wide range of kitchen appliances, including dishwashers and various other appliances.
The company manufacture reliable yet powerful dishwasher in the market.
Their dishwasher is equipped with many premium features that can effectively perform its operation for several years.
Despite having such powerful built quality and premium features, you will encounter various problems with the dishwasher.
If the dishwasher is throwing an error code, you can easily figure out the issues using the problem inside the dishwasher.
But, if the dishwasher is not displaying an error code, you need to make a thorough inspection inside the dishwasher to identify the problem.
If you are unable to figure out issues, it is recommended to restart the dishwasher.
Sometimes restarting the dishwasher does fix the problem from the dishwasher.
Today in this article, we will discuss steps to restart the Kitchenaid dishwasher.
In addition, we will also discuss different solutions to fix the problem inside the Kitchenaid dishwasher.
What happens when you reset Kitchenaid dishwasher?
Resetting the dishwasher clears out all the settings and configurations from memory.
The dishwasher is equipped with various types of sensors and electronic devices, which sometimes can overrun or create glitches inside the dishwasher.
Therefore, in most cases resetting the dishwasher fixes the issue or problem.
But you should not expect the same for all the problems.
If there is a technical issue resetting the dishwasher won’t fix the problem from the dishwasher. You need to call technicians to fix the problem.
How to reset Kitchenaid dishwasher?
The process of resetting the KitchenAid dishwasher varies from the dishwasher model.
In an older dishwasher, you won’t find features like a reset. You need to reset the dishwasher manually.
Here in the section, we will discuss step-wise information to reset the dishwasher using manual and automatic methods.
Manual method
The manual method is recommended for older dishwasher models.
In this method, you don’t need to press any button on the control panel. Just remove the power cord from the source.
After this, you have to wait 5-10 minutes and again plug the power cord into the source. You’ve successfully reset your dishwasher.
Automatic method
This method may not work in all the models of KitchenAid dishwashers. It only works on a specific model of dishwasher. Follow the below step-wise instruction:
- Press the power button on the dishwasher.
- Now press the Energy saver Dry and Hi-temp Scrub button simultaneously around 5 times.
- After this control panel will flash the light repeatedly for 4-5 seconds. Now leave the dishwasher for 10 minutes without doing anything.
What are error codes?
The modern dishwasher is equipped with this advanced system that automatically detects problems inside the dishwasher and notifies you using an error code.
If resetting the dishwasher does not fix the problem, check for the error code in the dishwasher.
The dishwasher owner manual contains all the information about the error code.
In addition, you will also get some suggestions to fix that particular error code from the dishwasher.
If you don’t have an owner manual, don’t worry; we will discuss the error code of the Kitchenaid dishwasher.
Error code 1-1
Kitchenaid dishwasher display error code 1-1 when it senses a stuck relay inside the dishwasher circuit board.
Solution
To fix the error code, 1-1 consider resetting the dishwasher using manual methods.
This should fix the error code 1-1 from the dishwasher. If the error code persists, you may need to replace the ECB of your dishwasher.
Error code 1-2
Error code 1-2 indicates dishwasher memory is damaged or corrupted.
Solution
First, inspect the control panel and make sure the control board is working fine.
You can test it using a multimeter, and if you find any problem with the board, you should replace the ECB of your Kitchenaid dishwasher.
Error code 2-1
If your dishwasher is showing a 2-1 error code, then it means that the control panel is probably stuck. When this happens, the control panel won’t function well.
Solution
If the control panel button is stuck or not working well. Open the control board panel and clean the dust and dirt particles lying around the panel.
If this does not work, turn off the dishwasher and hold the stuck buttons.
Error code 2-2
Error code 2-2 indicates that the connection between the control board and dishwasher has been lost. This mainly happens when the dishwasher thermal switch is defective.
Solution
The thermal switch in the dishwasher passes power onto the control panel. The switch breaks the connection during times of short circuit and extreme heat.
To fix this issue, first of all, remove the panel securing the control panel. The thermal switch is located just beside the control panel.
Now using a multimeter, you can determine if the switch is functional or not.
Error code 3-1
Error code 3-1 is associated with thermistor issues in the dishwasher. If the dishwasher thermistor wiring is faulty, you are likely to see this error code in the dishwasher.
Solution
A thermistor is an electrical resistor in the dishwasher that measures and controls the temperature of the dishwasher.
To fix this error, first, I recommend you restart the dishwasher. If the problem persists, disconnect the dishwasher from the power source and inspect the thermistor for wiring issues if present.
Similarly, if there is no problem with the thermistor wiring, you may need to replace the thermistor of your dishwasher.
Error code 3-2
Error code starting from 3 indicates a problem related to the thermistor or its component. Similarly, error code 3-2 shows short in the thermistor.
Solution
To fix error codes 3-2, you should repair thermistor/OWI wiring. You can look owner manual of your dishwasher for more information about thermistor wiring.
In addition, you will also find instructions to replace the thermistor from the dishwasher.
Error code 4-4
If your dishwasher is showing error codes 4-4 in your dishwasher, there must be a problem with the circulation pump.
Solution
The circulation pump is located at the bottom of the dishwasher. Follow the below step-wise instruction to inspect the faulty circulation pump inside the KitchenAid dishwasher.
- First, you need to remove the bottom access panel to access this.
- Check the dishwasher pump to see if the wire is torn or lost.
- Ensure that the wire is tightly secured in the motor and not loose.
- If this does not fix your dishwasher problem, consult dishwasher technicians.
Error code 5-1
Error code starting from 5 indicates a problem related to the dishwasher door switch or door latch.
If your dishwasher is showing a 5-1 error code, it means that the dishwasher door latch is loose or not functioning well.
Solution
The dishwasher door latch is located at the top of the dishwasher.
You need to pull the dishwasher from the cabinet to make an inspection of the dishwasher door latch.
Once you remove all the screws securing the dishwasher in the kitchen cabinet, pull the dishwasher away.
Now make sure that the door latch is not loose and functioning well.
The Kitchenaid dishwasher door latch is also equipped with a sensor that helps the dishwasher identify whether the door is properly closed.
Therefore if the sensor is not functioning well dishwasher can also throw error code 5-1 in your dishwasher.
Error code 5-2
If your dishwasher is showing a 5-2 error code, this indicates the dishwasher door is not opening correctly.
This mainly happens when there is obstruction around the dishwasher door.
Therefore, make a thorough inspection of the dishwasher door and make sure that there is no such obstruction to the door.
If the problem persists, reset the dishwasher and check the door latch wiring if loose or torn up.
Error code 6-1
If your dishwasher displays error code 6-1, there must be a problem with the dishwasher water inlet valve or motor.
When the dishwasher can’t load water inside the basin, you will encounter a 6-1 error code in the dishwasher.
Solution
Check the dishwasher inlet valve, and there is no mineral of food cogged buildup.
If the water in your area contains a high amount of minerals, it could be the reason behind the error code.
Similarly, if there is no problem with water, there must be a problem with the dishwasher motor.
Error code 6-2
Kitchenaid dishwasher error code 6-2 is similar to error code 6-1. If your dishwasher displays a 6-2 error code, it is due to an electrical fault with the water inlet valve.
Solution
First, reset the dishwasher and then try to run a normal cycle in the dishwasher.
If the dishwasher does not run normally, I recommend you remove the dishwasher from the cabinet and thoroughly inspect the dishwasher motor.
Error code 6-3
Error code 6-3 shows a water pump error in the dishwasher. The error code suggests that the water supply is not airtight.
Solution
If your dishwasher shows error codes 6-3, you must be facing slow water filing.
The solution to this error code is clean clogged particles if present in the inlet valve.
If this does not fix the error code, remove the dishwasher from the dishwasher and inspect the dishwasher water pump for issues.
Error code 6-4
Error code 6-4 in the KitchenAid dishwasher indicates issues with the dishwasher float switch.
If the float switch is not opening and closing, you are more likely to get this error code in your dishwasher.
Solution
To fix error codes 6-4 check the dishwasher float switch and ensure that it is freely circulating.
The main function of the float switch is to stop unloading the water in the dishwasher when it reaches a certain level.
There should not be obstruction or jam around the switch makes sure to clean it if present.
Error code 6-6
The error code 6-6 shows that water is not heated in the dishwasher.
Solution
If the water is cold inside the dishwasher then there must be an issue with the water heating element or thermistor.
Inspect these two things on your dishwasher and it should eliminate the error code from the dishwasher.
Error code 7-1
The error code 7-1 specifically indicates heating element failure in the Kitchenaid dishwasher.
Solution
Water does not heat when the heating element is defective in your dishwasher.
To fix this error code I recommend you to check the heating element or any wiring issues if present. Replace the heating element if it is eroded or defective.
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Conclusion
If you have read the complete article, I now assume you can easily reset your Kitchenaid dishwasher.
Here in this article, we have discussed step-wise information to reset the Kitchenaid dishwasher.
You should only reset your dishwasher when the machine is not functioning as usual or when there is some glitch inside the machine.
Though it is not the actual solution to the problem, it works in most minor dishwasher problems.
Furthermore, if you have any problem with the dishwasher. You can leave your problem down below in our website’s comment.
Frequently Asked Question
Why isn’t KitchenAid dishwasher cleaning?
If your dishwasher isn’t cleaning dishes, dishwasher spray arms must be clogged due to mineral or food buildup. Spray arms is spills water from the tiny holes during the wash cycle. When these tiny holes are clogged with minerals building up food is clogged, and your dishwasher won’t clean the dishes effectively.
Why is my Kitchenaid dishwasher not getting water?
If water is not flowing inside the dishwasher, there must be a problem with the water inlet valve. The Inlet valve allows water to enter the dishwasher. If the water inlet valve is clogged or defective dishwasher can’t load water inside the dishwasher. A clogged valve can be easily unclogged by accessing the inlet valve. If the valve is damaged, you need to replace it with a valve.
Why is the KitchenAid dishwasher not drying?
If your dishwasher is not drying after a complete cycle, make sure the hot air vent is not clogged. A clogged air vent is more likely to leave your dishes wet. Another reason dishwasher leaves dishes wet is improper loading of dishes inside the dishwasher. When you load dishes inside the dishwasher improperly, the dishwasher can’t dry the dishes properly.
Why is water not heating in the Kitchenaid dishwasher?
If you have recently played with dishwasher pressure and temperature setting, consider checking the temperature. Dishwasher pressure and temperature should always be recommended; else, you will encounter problems in the dishwasher. The dishwasher heating element is located at the bottom of the dishwasher. It gets eroded over time if you have not replaced the element until now; consider replacing it with a new one.
